Vehicle visual elements

ABSTRACT

A vehicle visual element includes a substrate defining a lamp cavity. A light source is positioned within the lamp cavity which is configured to emit light. A film defining at least one of a holographic and a diffraction grating is disposed over the lamp cavity.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure generally relates to visual elements, and moreparticularly, to illuminated vehicle visual elements.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Illumination systems used in vehicles may offer a unique and attractiveviewing experience. It therefore may be desirable to incorporate suchillumination systems in portions of vehicles to provide accent andfunctional lighting.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to at least one example of the present disclosure, a vehiclevisual element includes a substrate defining a lamp cavity. A lightsource is positioned within the lamp cavity which is configured to emitlight. A film defining at least one of a holographic and a diffractiongrating is disposed over the lamp cavity.

According to another example of the present disclosure, a vehicle cupholder includes a console substrate defining a cup well. A lamp cavityis positioned below the cup well. A film positioned between the cupswell and the lamp cavity defines at least one grating. A light source ispositioned within the lamp cavity which is configured to emit light ontothe film.

According to another example of the present disclosure, a method ofoperating a vehicle visual element, comprises the steps of: emittinglight in a first pattern from a light source onto a film defining agrating; generating a projected image having a first characteristic fromthe light of the first pattern through film interacting with thegrating; and emitting light in a second pattern onto the film to formthe projected image having a second characteristic.

These and other aspects, objects, and features of the present inventionwill be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art uponstudying the following specification, claims, and appended drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings:

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an exterior of a vehicle, according toat least one example;

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of an interior of a vehicle, according toat least one example;

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken at line II of FIG. 1B, accordingto at least one example;

FIG. 3A is an enhanced view of a grating, according to at least oneexample;

FIG. 3B is an enhanced view of a grating, according to at least oneexample;

FIG. 3C is an enhanced view of a grating, according to at least oneexample; and

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken at line IV of FIG. 1B, accordingto at least one example;

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the vehicle, according to at least oneexample; and

FIG. 6 is a flow chart, according to at least one example.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Additional features and advantages of the invention will be set forth inthe detailed description which follows and will be apparent to thoseskilled in the art from the description, or recognized by practicing theinvention as described in the following description, together with theclaims and appended drawings.

As used herein, the term “and/or,” when used in a list of two or moreitems, means that any one of the listed items can be employed by itself,or any combination of two or more of the listed items can be employed.For example, if a composition is described as containing components A,B, and/or C, the composition can contain A alone; B alone; C alone; Aand B in combination; A and C in combination; B and C in combination; orA, B, and C in combination.

In this document, relational terms, such as first and second, top andbottom, and the like, are used solely to distinguish one entity oraction from another entity or action, without necessarily requiring orimplying any actual such relationship or order between such entities oractions.

Referring now to FIGS. 1A-6, reference numeral 10 generally designates avehicle. The vehicle 10 includes a vehicle visual element 14. The visualelement 14 may include a substrate 18 defining a lamp cavity 22. One ormore light sources 26 are positioned within the lamp cavity 22 and areconfigured to emit light. A film 30, defining at least one grating 34 isdisposed over the lamp cavity 22.

Referring now to FIGS. 1A and 1B, the vehicle 10 includes a plurality ofexterior surfaces and a plurality of interior surfaces. Exemplaryexterior surfaces of the vehicle 10 may be defined by a door panel 38, aquarter-panel 42, a roof 46, a hood 50, a bumper 54 (e.g., front and/orrear bumpers) and/or other components positioned around the exterior ofthe vehicle 10. Exemplary interior surfaces of the vehicle 10 includeinstrument panels 58, seating assemblies 62, trim pieces 66, centerconsoles 70 and other surfaces within the interior of the vehicle 10.Each of the surfaces is defined by the substrate 18 (e.g., plastic,metal, fabric, glass, etc.) which forms the surface. It will beunderstood that various substrates 18 may be composed of one or morematerial while still being the substrate 18. The vehicle 10 may includeone or more visual elements 14 positioned on any of the interior and/orexterior surfaces listed above. In some examples, the visual element 14may be part of a larger or smaller structure such as a cup holder 78. Inyet other examples, the visual element 14 may be a standalone badge,logotype, switch and/or aesthetic element.

The vehicle 10 may include one or more cup holders 78. In the depictedexample, the cup holders 78 are positioned in the center console 70, butit will be understood that the cup holders 78 may be positioned in avariety of locations within the vehicle 10. For example, the cup holders78 may be positioned on a door and/or on the instrument panel 58.Additionally or alternatively, the cup holders 78 may be positionedproximate a rear seat of the vehicle 10 in a rear center console (e.g.,foldable), rear doors, seat backs or other areas in a rear of thevehicle 10. Although depicted as including two cup holders 78, it wouldbe understood that a single cup holder 78 or more than two cup holders78 may be utilized with the vehicle 10.

Referring now to FIG. 2, each of the visual elements 14 includes thesubstrate 18, the lamp cavity 22, the film 30 and the light sources 26.As explained above, the substrate 18 may be a component of a variety ofinterior and/or exterior components of the vehicle 10. As such, thevisual element 14 may be positioned on an exterior or an interior of thevehicle 10. In the depicted example, the substrate 18 integrally definesthe lamp cavity 22, but it will be understood that the lamp cavity 22may be defined by the substrate 18 through one or more separatestructures coupled to the substrate 18. Further, the lamp cavity 22 maybe defined by the substrate 18 in a different material than the rest ofthe substrate 18. For example, the substrate 18 may substantially befabric (e.g., in seat assembly 62 examples) while the lamp cavity 22 isdefined by a polymeric components of the substrate 18.

The lamp cavity 22 is a well in which one or more of the light sources26 are positioned or otherwise optically coupled. The depicted example,the light sources 26 are positioned alongside surfaces of the lampcavity 22, but it will be understood that the light source 26 mayadditionally or alternatively be positioned along a bottom of the lampcavity 22. In other examples, one or more light guides may be utilizedto transmit light to the lamp cavity 22 from remote light sources 26.The light sources 26 may be positioned in a spaced apart configurationaround a perimeter of the lamp cavity 22 and/or may form a continuous orsemi-continuous band of light sources 26 around the lamp cavity 22. Thelight sources 26 may be vertically stacked relative to one another. Inother words, the light sources 26 may be spread along a height of thelamp cavity 22.

The light sources 26 may be incandescent bulbs, light-emitting diodes,electroluminescent light sources, printed light sources and/orcombinations thereof. According to various examples, the light sources26 may be red-blue-green light-emitting diodes capable of emittingcolors of lights ranging from red, blue, green and/or combinationsthereof. The light sources 26 may be capable of emitting white, colored,nonvisible (e.g., ultraviolet and/or infrared), coherent and/orincoherent light into and around the lamp cavity 22. In some examples,the lamp cavity 22 may have a reflective film or coating disposed arounda perimeter of the cavity 22 to aid in the reflection of light. Thelight sources 26 may have a 120° pattern.

The light sources 26 are configured to emit light toward the film 30. Asa viewer of the visual elements 14 is positioned on an opposite side ofthe film 30 than the light sources 26, the film 30 is backlit relativeto the viewer. Such a feature may be advantageous in eliminatinghotspots in the lighting of the film 30. In some examples, the lightsources 26 may each be independently operable, while in other examplesone or more of the light sources 26 may be grouped to function together.For example, the light sources 26 may be horizontally grouped infunctionality. An example of such a configuration may be that the toplight sources 26 are configured to function (e.g., both emit light atthe same time) together while the bottom light sources 26 emit light atthe same time. Further, grouped light sources 26 may be activated indifferent colors to control color mixing of the light (i.e., toilluminate the film 30 in a desired color). As will be explained ingreater detail below, such a feature may be advantageous in adjustingthe illumination of the gratings 34 of the film 30. Grouping and/orsimultaneous activation of the light sources 26 may allow for variouspatterns of illumination to be projected onto the film 30 which mayfunction to illuminate the gratings 34 in a different manner.

The film 30 is positioned or disposed over the lamp cavity 22. Further,the film 30 is positioned between the light sources 26 and a viewer ofthe visual element 14 such that the film 30 is backlit. The film 30 maybe freestanding, or may be optionally coupled to one or more opticallytranslucent, transmissive or transparent substrates. The film 30 may becomposed of polyethylene terephthalate, orientated polypropylene and/orpolyvinyl chloride materials. The film 30 may be metalized ortransparent. For example, a portion, a majority or substantially all ofthe film 30 may be translucent, transmissive and/or transparent. 30 maybe partially transmissive. In some examples, the film 30 may form anindicia. The indicia may be alphanumeric text, a symbol, a picture, alogo or other image or text. The indicia may be formed via one or morepigments or dyes, or may be constructed from varying the transmissivityof the film 30 in various locations. The film 30 may have a density ofbetween about 70 grams per meter square (GSM) and about 450 GSM.

The film 30 may define one or more gratings 34. The gratings 34 may be aholographic grating 34 and/or a diffraction grating 34. The gratings 34of the film 30 may be formed by defining one or more features configuredto form an interference pattern. The features of the grating 34 may beridges, variations in opacity, density or surface profile. Light fromthe light sources 26 falling on the gratings 34 diffracts into a lightfield which forms a projected image 90. The projected image 90 may alsobe known as a hologram. The light field which forms the projected image90 may exhibit visual depth queues such as parallax and perspective thatchange realistically with any change in the relative position of theobserver (e.g., an occupant within an interior of the vehicle 10). Asthe projected image 90 exhibits a depth and changes with changingperspective of the observer, the projected image 90 is a hologram. Theprojected image 90 may appear to “float” or “hover” over the film 30.Use of examples of the visual element 14 which incorporate multiplelight sources 26 may be advantageous in providing a uniform appearanceto the projected images 90 regardless of viewing perspective of theobserver. In other words, a skewing of the projected image 90 based onthe lighting might not occur, or be apparent to the viewer. Further, useof multiple light sources 26 may allow for the projected image 90 tochange in intensity and/or color and may also simulate movement of theprojected image 90.

The projected image 90 may take a variety of configurations includingalpha numeric text, symbols (e.g., a cup holder symbol, vehicle make ormodel symbols, star pattern, etc.), as well as pictures. The lightemitted from the light sources 26 may be emitted in a variety ofpatterns configured to produce different characteristics of theprojected image 90. Accordingly, changing the lighting pattern from thelight sources 26 may change characteristics of the projected image 90.For example, a projected image 90 may be generated having a firstcharacteristic (e.g., color, shape, intensity, size, movement, etc.)from the light of the first lighting pattern and the projected image 90may be changed to have a second characteristic (e.g., a different color,shape, intensity, size, etc.) by emitting light from the light sources26 in a second lighting pattern onto the film 30. It will be understoodthat although other aspects of the lighting may remain constant,emitting light from different groups of light sources 26 may constitutea difference between the first and second lighting patterns. Theprojected image 90 may exhibit the color of the light emitted from thelight sources 26. As such, changing the color of the lighting patternsmay change the color of the project image 90. When the light sources 26are set to a white color, the projected image 90 may have rainbow effectdue to diffraction. The projected image 90 may appear different fromdifferent angles and from examples utilizing differently oriented ordifferently colored light sources 26. For example, the intensity orcolor of the projected image 90 may vary based on the observer'sposition relative to the visual element 14. The intensity of theprojected image 90 may be increased or decreased by a correspondingincrease or decrease in light (e.g., different lighting patterns) fromone or more of the light sources 26. As explained above, the lightsources 26 may be grouped such that pairs (e.g., or more) of the lightsources 26 may be activated in unison or sequentially. Activating of thetop light sources 26 may have the effect of creating a smaller projectedimage 90 relative to a projected image 90 formed from the activating ofthe bottom light sources 26 (e.g., different lighting patterns). Assuch, altering which light sources 26 are activated may adjust the sizeof the projected image 90.

According to various embodiments, altering the activation of the lightsources 26 may be configured to give the projected image 90 theappearance of movement. For example, by activating the light sources 26in an alternating manner, the projected image 90 may be skewed in analternating manner giving the appearance of movement. Further, adifferent projected image 90 may be formed by the activation of eachlight source 26 such that the projected image 90 appears to be movingaround film 30 of the visual element 14. It will be understood that thefilm 30 may define more than one holographic example of the grating 34such that a plurality of projected images 90 are formed. In such anexample, the projected image 90 may change based on which light source26 is activated or multiple projected images 90 may be visible at once.Based on the lighting from the light sources 26, the projected image 90may provide a 120° cone of image stand off from the visual element 14and/or the film 30.

According to various examples, the visual element 14 may include aproximity switch assembly 92. As will be explained in greater detailbelow, examples of the visual element 14 which include a proximityswitch assembly 92 may allow the visual element 14 to function as aswitch to control one or more features of the vehicle 10. The visualelement 14 may include a single proximity switch assembly 92 or aplurality of proximity switch assemblies 92. In the depicted example,the proximity switch assembly 92 is positioned to a side of the lampcavity 22, but it will be understood that one or more of the proximityswitch assemblies 92 may be positioned within the lamp cavity 22 (e.g.,against the film 30) and/or out outside of the visual element 14. Theproximity switch assembly 92 may include a single proximity sensor or aplurality of proximity sensors. The sensor(s) may be configured tocontrol one or more control outputs corresponding to a system or adevice of the vehicle 10. For example, the sensor may control the lightprovided by the light sources 26 or may control such features of thevehicle 10 as window up/down, mirror adjustment, door locks, cruisecontrol, volume, trip information, heads-up display adjustments, radiocontrols (e.g., seek, scan, media choice), air conditioning, fan speed,defrost and clock adjustment. In examples of the vehicle 10 where thevisual element 14 is positioned on an exterior of the vehicle 10, thevisual element 14 (e.g., through the proximity sensors of the proximityswitch assembly 92) may be used as an entry keypad, a locking feature,truck or tailgate activation, hood release and/or other functionsrelated to exterior and/or interior features of the vehicle 10.

In some examples, the proximity sensors may be implemented as capacitivesensors, but it will be understood that other types of proximity sensorsmay be used in addition to and/or alternatively to any other practicablesensor. Other examples of the proximity sensors of the proximity switchassembly 92 may include, but are not limited to, magnetic sensors,inductive sensors, optical sensors, resistive sensors, temperaturesensors, the like, or any combination thereof.

Capacitive sensors detect changes in capacitance due to the placement ormovement of an object such as a finger proximate to or in contact withthe visual element 14. A user's finger may tap or swipe on or near thevisual element 14 to input a switching event. The proximity switchassembly 92 may be formed by a first portion 94A and a second portion94B of a conductive layer 94. An insulative layer 94C is positionedbetween the first and second portions 94A, 94B. Capacitive sensors maybe actuatable with substantially no force to realize switch activation.The actual sensitivity of this type of switch can be tuned via adetection circuit. Capacitive switches beneficially provide immunity tointerference and eliminate the need for electromechanical switch gear(e.g., pushbuttons or sliding switches).

The proximity switch assembly 92 is configured to emit anelectromagnetic field 96. The electromagnetic field 96 extends outwardlyfrom the visual element 14. According to various examples, the sensorsof the proximity switch assembly 92 are activated when an object such asa finger proximate to or in contact with the visual element 14interferes with the electromagnetic field 96. The electromagnetic field96 may extend over the projected image 90. The distance which theelectromagnetic field 96 extends may be tuned.

In operation, the projected image 90 may be configured to indicate tothe observer or occupant of the vehicle 10 the location which needs tobe touched in order to trigger the proximity switch assembly 92 (e.g.,to make the visual element 14 function as a switch). For example, theprojected image 90, as explained above, may graphically represent theelectromagnetic field lines of the electromagnetic field 96 such that itis clear to an observer where the activation space for the proximityswitch assembly 92 is and where it is not. In other words, the projectedimage 90 may be displayed within the electromagnetic field 96. In suchan example, a printed indicia (e.g., film or paint) may be positioned ontop of the film 30 to indicate the function of the visual element 14. Inanother example, the projected image 90 may correspond to a graphicaldepiction of the function of the visual element 14. For example, an airconditioner example of the visual element 14 may be represented by theprojected image 90 of “A/C” or a fan speed example of the visual elementmay be represented by a fan shape for the projected image 90. In suchexamples, the projected image 90 may still serve to indicate to a userof the visual element 14 how close their finger needs to be to activatethe element 14. For example, the film 30 may be configured to create theprojected image 90 at a farthest operable distance for the visualelement 14 (e.g., the farthest the electromagnetic field 96 or theactivation area extends). In other words, the user of the visual element14 need only “touch” the projected image 90 to be close enough (e.g.,within the electromagnetic field 96) to activate the visual element 14.In yet other examples, the triggering of the proximity switch assembly92 may serve to dynamically change the aesthetics of the visual element14. For example, by triggering the proximity switch assembly 92, theprojected image 90 may have one or more characteristics (e.g., color,movement, shape, size, image, distance from the film 30, etc.) changed.By changing an aesthetic characteristic of the project image 90, avisual confirmation may be provided to the user that the proximityswitch assembly 92 has been actuated (e.g., that a vehicle feature hasbeen changed). As explained above, such changes in the characteristicsof the projected image 90 may be carried out by altering the lightingpattern emitted from the light sources 26 (e.g., which light sources 26are activated and/or in which color). In other words, triggering theproximity switch assembly 92 may change the illumination patternprovided by the light sources 26 in the lamp cavity 22.

The film 30 may have a generally curved shape, a flat shape, a squareshape, a rectangular shape, a polygonal shape, an undulating shape, orother complex shape. For example, one or more locations of an exteriorsurface (e.g., opposite the lamp cavity 22) of the film 30 may befaceted, non-planar, curved or characterized by other shapes. The film30 may define a plurality of spaces between the gratings 34 which remainsubstantially transparent to ambient light and/or the light from thelight sources 26. Faceted examples of the film 30, in addition to theuse of diffraction examples of the grating 34, may provide the film 30with a jewel-like appearance. For example, the plurality of diffractiongratings 34 may have a different period, range of periods, and/or shape,such that the iridescence of the film 30 appears random and more jewellike. The spaces and the diffraction gratings 34 may be strategicallypositioned to cooperate with the shape of the film 30 to create a morejewel-like appearance. It will be understood that diffraction andholographic examples of the gratings 34 may be used in conjunction withone another or be utilized separately.

Referring now to FIGS. 3A and 3B, the diffraction examples of thegrating 34 are configured to produce an iridescent pattern to lightimpinging upon it. The diffraction grating 34 may be present on a flatexample of the film 30 (FIG. 3A) on a curved embodiment of the film 30(FIG. 3B), or on other shapes of the film 30. For example, thediffraction grating 34 may be configured to reflect light of differentwavelengths in different directions. The diffraction grating 34 may havea thickness 98 that ranges from about 250 nm to about 1000 nm. Thethickness 98 of the diffraction grating 34, for example, should bemaintained in the range of about 250 nm to about 1000 nm to ensure thatthe film 30 exhibits a jewel-like appearance through light diffractionupon illumination in direct ambient lighting while also having a minimaleffect on the optical clarity of the film 30 under non-direct ambientlighting. Preferably, the thickness 98 of the diffraction grating 34ranges from about 390 nm to 700 nm. In other examples, the thickness 98of the diffraction gratings 34 ranges from 500 nm to 750 nm. As depictedin FIG. 3A in exemplary form, the diffraction grating 34 may have asawtooth or triangular shape. In three dimensions, these gratings 34 canappear with a stepped or sawtooth shape without angular features,pyramidal in shape, or some combination of stepped and pyramidal shapes.Other shapes of the diffraction example grating 34 include hill-shapedfeatures (e.g., sinusoidal or curved shaped features). The diffractionexample grating 34 can also include portions with a combination oftriangular and hill-shaped features. More generally, the shapes of thegrating 34 should be such that an effective blazing angle θ_(B) of atleast 15 degrees is present for one or more portions of each grating,tooth or groove of the diffraction example grating 34. The blaze angleθ_(B) is the angle between step normal (i.e., the direction normal toeach step or tooth of the grating 34) and a direction normal 100 to thefilm 30 having the diffraction grating 34.

Generally, the blaze angle θ_(B) is optimized to maximize the efficiencyof the wavelength(s) of the incident light which may be typical ambientsunlight, light from the light sources 26, to ensure that maximumoptical power is concentrated in one or more diffraction orders whileminimizing residual power in other orders (e.g., the zeroth orderindicative of the ambient light itself). An advantage of situating thediffraction example gratings 34 on planar portions or aspects of film 30is that a constant blaze angle θ_(B) and a period 102 will result inconsistent reflected and diffracted light produced from the diffractionexample grating 34.

The diffraction example grating 34 of the film 30 may be characterizedby one or more periods 102 (also known as din the standard nomenclatureof diffraction gratings). In most aspects of the film 30, the period 102of the diffraction grating 34 is maintained between about 50 nm andabout 5 microns. In general, the maximum wavelength that a givendiffraction grating 34 can diffract is equal to about twice the period102. Hence, a diffraction grating 34 with the period 102 that ismaintained between about 50 nm and about 5 microns can diffract light inan optical range of 100 nm to about 10 microns. In at least one example,the period 102 of the diffraction grating 34 is maintained from about150 nm to about 400 nm, ensuring that the diffraction grating 34 canefficiently diffract light in an optical range of about 300 nm to about800 nm, roughly covering the visible spectrum.

Incident light 106 (typically ambient, sun light and the phosphorescentlight) at an incident angle α is directed against a sawtooth-shapeddiffraction grating 34 having a thickness 98, a period 102 and a blazeangle θ_(B). More particularly, a portion of the incident light 106(e.g., a small portion) striking the diffraction grating 34 at anincident angle α is reflected as reflected light 106 _(r) at the sameangle α, and the remaining portion of the incident light 106 isdiffracted at particular wavelengths corresponding to diffracted light106 _(n), 106 _(n+1), etc., at corresponding diffraction angles βn,βn+1, etc. The reflected light 106 r is indicative of the zeroth order(i.e., n=0) and the diffracted light 106 _(n), 106 _(n+1), 106 _(n+2)are indicative of the nth order diffraction according to standarddiffraction grating terminology, where n is an integer corresponding toparticular wavelengths of the reflected or diffracted light.

Referring now to FIG. 3C, an example of the diffraction grating 34employing varying periods 102 (e.g., as including a set of periods) thatcan be employed in the film 30 is depicted in a cross-sectional form. Inthe depicted example, the diffraction grating 34 can have two or moresets of teeth or grooves, each having a particular period 102 that canproduce light at unique or differing diffraction orders. As shown, thegrating 34 is configured with three periods—period 102A, period 102B,and period 102C. One set of teeth of the diffraction grating 34 with aperiod of 102A can produce diffracted light 106 _(n) and 106 _(n+1), adifferent set of teeth with a period of 102B can produce diffractedlight 106 _(n+2) and 106 _(n+3), and a third set of teeth with a periodof 102C can produce diffracted light 106 _(n+4) and 106 _(n+5), all fromthe same incident light 106. Consequently, the diffraction grating 34,whether employed on interior or exterior surfaces of the film 30,advantageously can produce jewel-like effects of widely varyingwavelengths within various regions of the film 30.

The diffraction and holographic examples of the gratings 34 may beformed into the film 30 in a variety of ways. For example, a chemicalbased laser may etch a mold or press used for forming the film 30, withthe diffraction and holographic gratings 34. The material of the film 30may flow into the etchings and thereby form the diffraction andholographic gratings 34 on the film 30.

In some aspects, the diffraction grating 34 includes a varying periodthat varies between two to ten discrete values or, more preferably,between two to five discrete values across the diffraction grating 34.According to another aspect, the diffraction grating 34 with varyingperiods can be employed in one or more portions of the film 30, and oneor more diffraction gratings 34 having a constant period are employed inother portions of the film 30 to create interesting, jewel-likeappearance effects produced by the film 30 employing the gratings 34. Inanother example, the diffraction grating 34 includes a varying periodthat changes between any number of values, only limited by the overalllength of the grating 34 and/or the processing capabilities to developsuch variability through precise control of mold dimensions. In anotherexample there may be a plurality of diffraction gratings 34 in a spacedapart configuration across the film 30. In such an example, theplurality of diffraction gratings 34 may have the same or a differentperiod. In yet another embodiment, the diffraction grating(s) 34 maysubstantially cover the interior or exterior surfaces of the film 30. Inexamples where diffraction gratings 34 are present on the interiorsurface (e.g., proximate the lamp cavity 22) of the film 30, thediffraction taking place on the interior surface may provide anaesthetically pleasing “depth” to the film 30.

In some examples, optional coatings may be applied over the interiorsurface and/or exterior surface of the film 30. For example, anoptically clear sealing layer (e.g., a polyurethane seal) can be appliedover the film 30 to add further mechanical and/or ultraviolet lightprotection to the film 30, particularly to any gratings 34 defined bythe film 30. Advantageously, the addition of a relatively thinprotective coating can protect the gratings 34.

Referring now to FIG. 4, depicted is an example of the cup holder 78. Inthe depicted example, the substrate 18 defines a cup well 112 inaddition to the lamp cavity 22. In the depicted example, the cup well112 and the lamp cavity 22 are separated by the film 30. An insert 116may be positioned within the cup well 112. In the depictedconfiguration, the projected image 90 and/or the jewel-like diffractionform the gratings 34 may be visible within the cup well 112 and/orthrough the insert 116. In other words, the film 30 may create theprojected image 90 within the cup well 112. In the depicted example, theinsert 116 is positioned over the film 30, but it will be understoodthat the insert 116 may be coupled with the film 30. Further, an opticalcoupling adhesive may be positioned between the film 30 and the insert116. The insert 116 may define one or more of the gratings 34. Thegratings 34 may be the holographic gratings 34 and/or the diffractiongratings 34. The gratings 34 may be defined along interior and/orexterior surfaces (e.g., against the substrate 18) of the insert 116.The insert 116 may be composed of silicone, polyisoprene, polybutadiene,chloroprene, butyl rubber, nitrile rubber, fluorosilicate,fluoroelastomers, ethylene vinyl acetate, other soft polymeric materialsand/or combinations thereof. In a specific example, the insert 116 maybe molded and be formed of silicone. The insert 116 may be opaque,translucent, or substantially transparent. The insert 116 may have atransparency to light in a visible spectrum (e.g., about 400 nm to about700 nm) of greater than about 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% or 99%. In someexamples, the insert 116 may include a colorant (e.g., to color orfilter the light passing through or being reflected off of the insert116), an ultra violet inhibitor or blocker (e.g., a hindered amine orbenzoyl).

The interior surface of the insert 116 may have a generally curvedshape, as depicted, or may have a flat, square, rectangular, polygonal,undulating, or other complex shape. For example, one or more locationsof the interior surface of the insert 116 may be faceted, non-planar,curved or characterized by other shapes. According to various examples,the insert 116 may define holographic and/or diffraction gratings 34 onthe interior and/or exterior surfaces of the insert 116. Such featuresmay provide an aesthetically pleasing jewel-like surface to the insert116.

Referring now to FIG. 5, a box diagram of vehicle 10 is shown in whichthe visual element 14 is implemented. The vehicle 10 includes acontroller 120 in communication with the light sources 26 and theproximity switch assembly 92. The controller 120 may include a memory124 having instructions contained therein executed by a processor 128 ofthe controller 120. The controller 120 may provide electrical power tothe light sources 26 by a power source 134 located onboard the vehicle10. The memory 124 may include a variety of light control routines 138configured to vary the color and intensity emitted by the light sources26 that may be executed by the controller 120 in response to a userinput (e.g., from the proximity switch assembly 92 and/or other buttonsor switches around the vehicle 10). For example, the light sources 26may increase in brightness and/or change color to correspond withvarious vehicle events (e.g., welcome or farewell events, vehicle start,moving, stationary). In specific examples, the intensity of the lightsources 26 may be altered relative to one another in order to make theprojected image 90 appear to move or change color as explained above.Further, the intensity and/or color of the light sources 26 may bealtered based on a user defined preference for ambient lighting in theinterior of the vehicle 10. In another example, the intensity of each ofthe light sources 26 may be set in a random order, and then pulsed for arandom amount of time to create a random sparkling appearance in theinsert 116. Light sources 26 producing the projected images 90 may alsobe activated.

In addition, the controller 120 may be configured to control the lightoutput of one or more of the light sources 26 based on feedback receivedfrom one or more vehicle control modules or sensors such as aspeedometer, a light sensor and/or a temperature sensor. For example,the light sources 26 may increase in brightness or change color tocorrespond with operating modes of the visual element 14. In specificexamples, the intensity of the light sources 26 may be altered in orderto make the projected image 90 appear to move or change color asexplained above. Further, the intensity of the light sources 26 of onevisual element 14 may be altered relative to the light sources 26 ofanother visual element 14. For example, when a heated seat example ofthe visual element 14 is activated, a heated seat off visual element 14can be enhanced (e.g., color, intensity and/or movement change) suchthat the heated seat off visual element 14 is enhanced relative to theheated seat on visual element 14 such that is able to be quicklyidentified. In another example, the memory 124 may include a routine toalternate the color, intensity and/or movement of the visual element 14based on data sensed from one or more of the sensors. In a firstexample, sensor data from the light sensor may be utilized to determinethe ambient lighting conditions in which the vehicle 10 is present inorder to increase or decrease the intensity of the light from the lightsources 26 of the visual element 14. Such an example may make the visualelement 14 more visible under the current lighting conditions of thevehicle 10. In a second example, speed data from the speedometer may beused to enhance certain visual element 14 to reduce driving distraction.For example, visual elements 14 commonly used by a driver duringoperation of the vehicle 10 may be enhanced (e.g., intensity, colorand/or movement of the projected image 90) to make the appropriatevisual elements 14 more visible to the driver while driving. In a thirdexample, temperature data from the temperature sensor may be utilized toenhance the perception of temperature related visual elements 14. Forexample, if the temperature sensor detects a cold temperature exterioror interior to the vehicle 10, visual elements 14 relating to heatingand/or defrosting controls can be enhanced (e.g., change color, movementand/or intensity) to highlight these visual elements 14 to the driver.It will be understood that the visual elements 14 for cooling (e.g., airconditioning, ventilated seats) may be enhanced when the temperaturesensor detects hot conditions exterior or interior to the vehicle 10.

Referring now to FIG. 6, an exemplary light control routine 138, ormethod, is depicted. The routine 138 may begin with a step 142 ofemitting light in a first pattern from the light source 26 onto the film30 defining the grating 34. As explained above one or more of the lightsources 26 within the lamp cavity 22 may be activated to emit lighttoward and/or onto the film 30. As the light sources 26 are positionedon an opposite side of the film 30 from the viewer, the film 30 may besaid to be backlit.

Next, a step 146 of generating the projected image 90 having a firstcharacteristic from the light of the first pattern through film 30interacting with the grating 34 is performed. As explained above, thefirst characteristic may be a color, movement, size, shape, symbol,perceived distance from the film 30 and/or other visual characteristicof the projected image 90. The projected image 90 may be generated on anopposite side of the film 30 than the light source 26.

Next, a step 150 of emitting light in a second pattern onto the film 30to form the projected image 90 having a second characteristic isperformed. In other words, changing of the light pattern emitted by thelight sources 26 onto the film 30 changes a characteristic of theprojected image 90. For example, the project image 90 may begin or stopmoving, change color, change size, change shape, or otherwise bevisually different than the project image 90 of the firstcharacteristic. For example, the projected image 90 of the firstcharacteristic may be smaller than the projected image 90 of the secondcharacteristic. In another example, the projected image 90 of the firstcharacteristic is larger than the projected image 90 of the secondcharacteristic. In yet another example, the projected image 90 of thefirst characteristic has a different color than the projected image 90of the second characteristic. As explained above, the proximity switchassembly 92 may detect a capacitive signal proximate the visual element14 and change the projected image 90 between the first characteristicand the second characteristic by changing the light pattern on the film30 provided by the light sources 26.

Use of the present disclosure may offer a variety of advantages. First,use of the film 30 and/or the gratings 34 and the light sources 26 mayprovide a projected image 90 which appears to be floating within theinsert 116, within the cup well 112 and/or above the film 30. Such afeature may enhance the aesthetic appearance of the visual element 14.Second, use of multiple light sources 26 allows for the projected image90 to change in appearance through changing intensity, color and/ormovement. Third, use of the diffraction examples of the gratings 34 maycreate a pleasing crystal-like effect. For example, in clear examples ofthe insert 116 where the gratings 34 are defined on the exterior surfaceof the insert 116, the diffraction of light by the clear insert 116 mayproduce a “crystal” like appearance. In examples, where the insert 116is colored (e.g., black) and the diffraction gratings 34 are defined onthe interior surface, a “black quartz” effect may be achieved. Further,the diffraction examples of the grating 34 on the film 30 may give thefilm 30 and/or the visual element 14 a pleasing crystal appearance.Fourth, use of the visual element 14 in conjunction with vehicle sensorsmay allow the projected image 90 to vary interactively based on sensedconditions of the vehicle 10. Fifth, use of multiple light sources 26allows for the projected image 90 to change in appearance or functionalidentification of the visual element 14, by altering the appearance ofthe projected image 90 and the visual element 14 through changingintensity, color and/or movement. Sixth, use of the lamp cavity 22 andthe backlit orientation of the film 30 may allow for a more compactvisual element 14, as well as a more aesthetically pleasing projectedimage 90. Further, by positioning the light sources 26 behind the film30 relative to the viewer, new locations where the visual element 14 maybe implemented are available.

According to various embodiments, a vehicle visual element, includes asubstrate defining a lamp cavity, a light source positioned within thelamp cavity configured to emit light, and a film defining at least oneof a holographic and a diffraction grating disposed over the lampcavity. Embodiments of the vehicle visual element can include any one ora combination of the following features:

-   -   the film is transparent;    -   the film defines a diffraction grating;    -   the film defines a holographic grating;    -   the substrate is a center console substrate;    -   the substrate is an interior trim component substrate;    -   the substrate is an instrument panel substrate;    -   a proximity sensor is positioned proximate the film; and    -   a plurality of light sources is positioned within the lamp        cavity.

According to various embodiments, a method operating a vehicle visualelement may include the steps of: emitting light in a first pattern froma light source onto a film defining a grating; generating a projectedimage having a first characteristic from the light of the first patternthrough film interacting with the grating; and emitting light in asecond pattern onto the film to form the projected image having a secondcharacteristic. Embodiments of the method can include any one or acombination of the following features:

-   -   the projected image of the first characteristic is smaller than        the projected image of the second characteristic;    -   the projected image of the first characteristic is larger than        the projected image of the second characteristic;    -   the projected image of the first characteristic has a different        color than the projected image of the second characteristic;    -   the step of generating the projected image further comprises:        generating the projected image on an opposite side of the film        than the light source; and    -   detecting a capacitive signal proximate the visual element and        changing the projected image between the first characteristic        and the second characteristic.

Modifications of the disclosure will occur to those skilled in the artand to those who make or use the disclosure. Therefore, it is understoodthat the embodiments shown in the drawings and described above aremerely for illustrative purposes and not intended to limit the scope ofthe disclosure, which is defined by the following claims, as interpretedaccording to the principles of patent law, including the doctrine ofequivalents.

It will be understood by one having ordinary skill in the art thatconstruction of the described disclosure, and other components, is notlimited to any specific material. Other exemplary embodiments of thedisclosure disclosed herein may be formed from a wide variety ofmaterials, unless described otherwise herein.

For purposes of this disclosure, the term “coupled” (in all of itsforms: couple, coupling, coupled, etc.) generally means the joining oftwo components (electrical or mechanical) directly or indirectly to oneanother. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature.Such joining may be achieved with the two components (electrical ormechanical) and any additional intermediate members being integrallyformed as a single unitary body with one another or with the twocomponents. Such joining may be permanent in nature, or may be removableor releasable in nature, unless otherwise stated.

As used herein, the term “about” means that amounts, sizes,formulations, parameters, and other quantities and characteristics arenot and need not be exact, but may be approximate and/or larger orsmaller, as desired, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, roundingoff, measurement error and the like, and other factors known to those ofskill in the art. When the term “about” is used in describing a value oran end-point of a range, the disclosure should be understood to includethe specific value or end-point referred to. Whether or not a numericalvalue or end-point of a range in the specification recites “about,” thenumerical value or end-point of a range is intended to include twoembodiments: one modified by “about,” and one not modified by “about.”It will be further understood that the end-points of each of the rangesare significant both in relation to the other end-point, andindependently of the other end-point.

The terms “substantial,” “substantially,” and variations thereof as usedherein are intended to note that a described feature is equal orapproximately equal to a value or description. For example, a“substantially planar” surface is intended to denote a surface that isplanar or approximately planar. Moreover, “substantially” is intended todenote that two values are equal or approximately equal. In someembodiments, “substantially” may denote values within about 10% of eachother, such as within about 5% of each other, or within about 2% of eachother.

It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement ofthe elements of the disclosure, as shown in the exemplary embodiments,is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the presentinnovations have been described in detail in this disclosure, thoseskilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciatethat many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes,dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements,values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors,orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novelteachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example,elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multipleparts, or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, theoperation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, thelength or width of the structures, and/or members, or connectors, orother elements of the system, may be varied, and the nature or number ofadjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied. Itshould be noted that the elements and/or assemblies of the system may beconstructed from any of a wide variety of materials that providesufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors,textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications areintended to be included within the scope of the present innovations.Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be madein the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the desired andother exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of thepresent innovations.

It will be understood that any described processes, or steps withindescribed processes, may be combined with other disclosed processes orsteps to form structures within the scope of the present disclosure. Theexemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrativepurposes and are not to be construed as limiting.

It is also to be understood that variations and modifications can bemade on the aforementioned structures and methods without departing fromthe concepts of the present disclosure, and, further, it is to beunderstood that such concepts are intended to be covered by thefollowing claims, unless these claims, by their language, expresslystate otherwise. Further, the claims, as set forth below, areincorporated into and constitute part of this Detailed Description.

What is claimed is:
 1. A vehicle visual element, comprising: a substratedefining a lamp cavity; a light source positioned within the lamp cavityconfigured to emit light; and a film defining at least one of aholographic and a diffraction grating disposed over the lamp cavity. 2.The vehicle visual element of claim 1, wherein the film is transparent.3. The vehicle visual element of claim 1, wherein the film defines adiffraction grating.
 4. The vehicle visual element of claim 1, whereinthe film defines a holographic grating.
 5. The vehicle visual element ofclaim 1, wherein the substrate is a center console substrate.
 6. Thevehicle visual element of claim 1, wherein the substrate is an interiortrim component substrate.
 7. The vehicle visual element of claim 6,wherein the substrate is an instrument panel substrate.
 8. The vehiclevisual element of claim 1, further comprising: a proximity sensorpositioned proximate the film.
 9. The vehicle visual element of claim 1,wherein a plurality of light sources is positioned within the lampcavity.
 10. A vehicle cup holder, comprising: a console substratedefining a cup well; a lamp cavity positioned below the cup well; a filmdefining at least one grating positioned between the cup well and thelamp cavity; and a light source positioned within the lamp cavityconfigured to emit light onto the film.
 11. The vehicle cup holder ofclaim 10, wherein the film defines a diffraction grating and aholographic grating.
 12. The vehicle cup holder of claim 10, wherein thefilm creates a projected image within the cup well.
 13. The vehicle cupholder of claim 10, further comprising: an insert positioned within thecup well.
 14. The vehicle cup holder of claim 10, wherein the film is atleast partially transmissive.
 15. A method of operating a vehicle visualelement, comprising the steps of: emitting light in a first pattern froma light source onto a film defining a grating; generating a projectedimage having a first characteristic from the light of the first patternthrough film interacting with the grating; and emitting light in asecond pattern onto the film to form the projected image having a secondcharacteristic.
 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the projected imageof the first characteristic is smaller than the projected image of thesecond characteristic.
 17. The method of claim 15, wherein the projectedimage of the first characteristic is larger than the projected image ofthe second characteristic.
 18. The method of claim 15, wherein theprojected image of the first characteristic has a different color thanthe projected image of the second characteristic.
 19. The method ofclaim 15, wherein the step of generating the projected image furthercomprises: generating the projected image on an opposite side of thefilm than the light source.
 20. The method of claim 15, furthercomprising the step: detecting a capacitive signal proximate the visualelement and changing the projected image between the firstcharacteristic and the second characteristic.